He came to fame in his debut acting role in Matalan as the acrobatic hero.

Palihakkara was also a gifted dancer who has said that he was inspired by Chitrasena's dancing.

He was also a well-known dancing teacher who produced many talented students over the decades.

Shesha acted in Lester James Pieris' maiden feature Rekava. With the help of director Mike Wilson and Sir Arthur C. Clarke, Palihakkara developed the first Sinhala colour film Ranmuthudoowa for his production company Serendib Productions.

He has done a remarkable service to Sinhala film industry in many deciplines. It was Shesha who suggested that we film Ranmuthudoowa
in colour

Film director Tissa Liyanasooriya

Veteran film director Tissa Liyanasooriya who co-directed Getawarayo and directed Sarawita Sinhala films for Serendib productions paid tribute to his former colleague.

He told BBC Sandeshaya: "He has done a remarkable service to Sinhala film industry in many disciplines. It was Shesha who
suggested that we film Ranmuthudoowa in colour."

In addition, Palihakkara produced and directed the feature film, Laksheta Kodiya.

Shesha Palihakkara, also worked with David Lean as a make up artist in the Oscar winning war drama Bridge on the River Kwai, which was filmed in Sri Lanka.